Premium India
Premium India
Premium India
11 Days Starting and ending in Delhi
Visiting: Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Lucknow, Varanasi
Tour operator:
Tour code:
HHPG
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 12
Age range:
15-99 years
Interests:
Tour Overview
Welcome to northern India, where ancient religion, cultural heritage and spirituality come together. On this 11-day Premium adventure, you’ll discover the Pink City of Jaipur, see the Mughal splendours of Delhi and Agra, savour the many flavours of Lucknow cuisine and soak up the ambience of holy Varanasi on a sunrise cruise. A local leader will bring the magic of India to light, from lavish palaces to vibrant bazaars and the incomparable Taj Mahal – one of the Seven Wonders of the World. Packed with hotspots and hidden gems, you’ll discover the cultural heart of India through Exclusive Experiences, incredible accommodation and local interaction.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Delhi
Location: Delhi
Accommodation: The Grand Hotel or similar
Meals Included: dinner
Namaste! Welcome to India. When you arrive at Delhi Airport, you’ll be collected and transferred to your hotel. Your adventure then begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm to meet your local leader and fellow travellers. Until then, you can explore this exciting capital city. Filled with historical landmarks, museums, galleries and endless bazaars, there’s plenty to keep you entertained in Delhi. After your meeting, head out for dinner at one of Delhi’s oldest restaurants. Having opened its doors more than 80 years ago, the iconic restaurant is credited with introducing India to ice cream and fine dining.
Included Activities:
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Day 2: Delhi
Location: Delhi
Accommodation: The Grand Hotel or similar
Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner
To get your bearings in Old Delhi, start the day with a leader-led tour of the most ancient part of the city. Your leader will help you navigate the metro system so you can then explore the impressive Mughal architecture on foot. It’s not Delhi without a traffic jam, so hop aboard a traditional rickshaw and weave your way around the streets surrounding the Chandi Chowk marketplace. Stop by India’s oldest and largest mosque, the Jama Masjid, before heading into the Sikh temple of Sheeshganj Gurudwara to observe the capital’s spiritual side. You have a free evening ahead to relax and recharge. Tap into your leader’s local expertise for food and activity recommendations that match your mood.
Included Activities:
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Day 3: Agra
Location: Agra
Accommodation: Grand Mercure Hotel or similar
Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner
It’s time to head south to Agra. After a scenic four-hour drive, settle into your new hotel before visiting India’s most iconic landmark – the Taj Mahal, one of the Seven Wonders of the World. A tribute to his belated wife, Emperor Shah Jahan commissioned this famous monument in 1632 to house her remains. Intrigued? Your Taj Mahal guide will illuminate its fascinating history as you stroll the grounds at sunset. You’re likely familiar with North Indian cuisine (butter chicken anyone?), and tonight, your local expert will take you to unknown places on a street food tour. Stop by a 19th-century shop serving up age-old recipes from the Braj region of India for dinner tonight, where you’ll visit hyperlocal eateries that most tourists never get to see.
Included Activities:
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Day 4: Jaipur
Location: Jaipur
Accommodation: Hotel Narain Niwas Palace (Feature Stay) or similar
Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch, dinner
Start the day with a visit to Agra Fort – widely considered one of the finest-looking forts in India. Learn how Akbar built a fortress and prison out of red sandstone in 1565, and then Shah Jahan converted and added to the fort to transform it into a palace. After, you’ll journey to Jaipur – the capital of Rajasthan – for your Feature Stay at the Hotel Narain Niwas Palace. This heritage hotel, managed by the same family since its opening in 1928, exudes the charm of a traditional family home while showcasing opulent touches at every turn – think chandeliers, stained glass windows and peacocks roaming the grounds. Later, join your leader on a walking tour through the crowded streets and wander bazaars filled with handcrafted textiles, folk art and the local specialty of semi-precious stones. Conclude the evening with a home-cooked dinner in the home of a local family and make the most of your time with your hosts, learning about their way of life.
Included Activities:
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Day 5: Jaipur
Location: Jaipur
Accommodation: Hotel Narain Niwas Palace (Feature Stay) or similar
Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner
Another day, another fort – but this time it’s Amber Fort, the crown jewel of Jaipur. Your leader will share the stories of a fallen empire as you explore ornate rooms, murals, frescoed arches and delicate jali work. Head to the striking City Palace – a blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture. Tour the grounds and learn about its construction by the founder of Jaipur. Later in the afternoon, hop on a rickshaw and travel to a royal haveli. Havelis are royal mansions that were ornately decorated as a display of wealth, many of which exist across the city today. You’ll meet the owner of a haveli for a tour of the property as he shares photos and stories of his ancestors who once ruled the nearby provinces.
Included Activities:
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Optional Activities:
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Day 6: Lucknow
Location: Lucknow
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner
Enjoy a leisurely morning before flying east to Lucknow – the capital of India’s largest region, Uttar Pradesh. When you arrive, your leader will guide the group on an afternoon orientation walk to help you get acquainted with your new surroundings. This evening, join your group for dinner at a very special establishment – a restaurant that supports and empowers acid attack survivors. These courageous women, once too scared to leave their homes due to the physical and emotional scars of their attacks, have found refuge and a source of income through their work at the cafe.
Included Activities:
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Day 7: Lucknow
Location: Lucknow
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: breaksfast, lunch
Seize the day with a morning tour of Lucknow, where your leader will show you some of the city’s best spots. This might include a stop at the intricate Bara Imambara – a hall built in 1784 for Shia Muslims. Its labyrinthine layout of narrow passages and staircases is best navigated with the help of a knowledgeable local. If you were impressed by Lucknow’s cuisine last night, you’ll be delighted with this afternoon’s cooking class. Discover the culinary secrets of Lucknowites, gaining skills that you can hopefully put to good use at home! For dinner, maybe try to find somewhere serving Tunday Kebabi (a Lucknow delicacy that allegedly contains 160 spices).
Included Activities:
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Day 8: Varanasi
Location: Varanasi
Accommodation: Ramada Katesar or similar
Meals Included: breaksfast
It’s an early start today, but for good reason – no trip to India is complete without a scenic train ride. The journey to Varanasi offers a unique glimpse into the heart of the countryside, all from the comfort of your seat. When you’ve checked into your hotel, join the group for a walking tour of the city widely regarded as India’s spiritual capital. In the evening, set sail on a sunset cruise on the Ganges. You’ll be joined by local musicians on board, who will play as you watch the flower and candle ceremony – an experience that will surely be etched in your memory long after your time in India is over.
Included Activities:
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Day 9: Varanasi
Location: Varanasi
Accommodation: Ramada Katesar or similar
Meals Included: breaksfast
Early risers, this one’s for you – embark on a sunrise boat ride on the Ganges, where your leader will explain the significance of India’s most sacred river while gliding past the many ghats and temples on its banks. After, decide your own schedule before coming together again at Sarnath – one of the four main Buddhist pilgrimage destinations. The site is where Buddha preached his message of the path to enlightenment and features several stupas and museums to explore.
Included Activities:
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Day 10: Delhi
Location: Delhi
Accommodation: The Grand Hotel or similar
Meals Included: breaksfast, dinner
It’s the penultimate day today and time to return to Delhi. When you land, the afternoon is yours to explore at your leisure. There are plenty of sites you may have missed the first time around, like Humayun’s Tomb – a garden tomb dating back to 1570 – or Qutb Minar, the highest tower in India. Your leader can help you book any activities you wish to do before your final dinner as a group. You’ll head to a beautiful haveli dating back to 1887. Tuck into a feast of Mughlai cuisine, street food dishes and kebabs in a historical setting – the perfect finale to your Indian adventure.
Included Activities:
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Optional Activities:
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Day 11: Delhi
Location: Delhi
Meals Included: breaksfast
Your journey comes to an end after breakfast. For those who wish to stay in Delhi, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Hotel (8 nights), Jaipur Feature Stay (2 nights) -
Complimentary Airport Arrival Transfer
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Delhi - Welcome dinner
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Agra - Taj Mahal
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Agra - Expert-led street food tour (as dinner)
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Agra - Agra Fort
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Ranthambhore National Park - Morning Wildlife Safari
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Ranthambhore National Park - Evening wildlife safari
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Jaipur - Home-cooked dinner
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Jaipur - Leader-led orientation walk
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Jaipur - Amber Fort
What's Not Included
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Tipping and Gratuities
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International Travel
Transport
TRANSPORT IN INDIAMain roads in India are usually very busy with an assortment of vehicles from the biggest trucks (who always have right of way) down to bikes (and animals!). Overtaking on blind corners at speed is common as is the total use of the horn as a form of communication. Our leaders have complete authority to remove groups from local transport if the driver is not driving safely. Drivers of our private vehicles are experienced and well trained. If you are uncomfortable with your driver, please always let your tour leader know immediately. Please ensure you wear your seat belt at all times.TRAVEL TIMESDistances in India do not reflect the driving time and to cover 100km may take much longer than you would expect at home, even if much of the route is on a highway.TRAINS:India has a massive network of trains and millions of people travel by rail every day. Trains often travel the length of the country over several days. Trains are a great way to see the countryside and get you away from the busy road system. Delays and cancellations are common on trains. Your tour leader will check the train status to see if there are delays and will do their best to keep you informed of any changes.From December to February, delays are more common, especially in the north of the country due to fog. It’s not uncommon for trains to be delayed for up to 12 hours. On occasion, your trip may need to be rerouted to allow for these delays. Your tour leader in conjunction with our local office will advise any changes to the itinerary.FLIGHTSAirlines in India are of excellent quality. Airports are becoming more modern (especially in the major and tourist cities). To enter the airport, you must have a copy of your flight ticket and passport. Schedule changes and delays do occur, especially when weather conditions make visibility poor.AUTO RICKSHAWSOn this trip we may travel in a local style of transport called an auto-rickshaw. These small, motorised three-wheeled vehicles are a common form of transport in India and do not have seatbelts.
Accommodation
The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.ACCOMMODATIONThe hotel accommodation on this trip is in air-conditioned rooms. Some areas of India experience daily load shedding. This is where the power may be turned off at certain times of the day and usually occurs for a few hours in the early afternoon. Most hotel properties have a restaurant or cafe serving local meals. Many restaurants and hotels do not serve alcohol for religious reasons or due to local laws.SHOWERS:Showers at some hotels only have hot water at peak times (usually morning and evening). Outside of these times, you may need to speak to reception to obtain hot water.WIFI:Generally, WiFi is available in most parts of India and at most of the accommodation we use. Sometimes it's free in the room, other times only available in reception or public areas. A general rule of thumb is the more expensive the hotel, the higher charge for WiFi access. Your group leader or local representative can assist locally in accessing the internet.ISSUES:If you have any issues with your room, please speak to the hotel and your group leader or local representative right away rather than your travel agent so that the problem can be addressed without delay.
Important Information
1. A complimentary airport arrival transfer is included; valid if you are arriving on Day 1 or if you have booked pre-tour accommodation through us. You must provide your flight details to your booking agent at least 14 days prior to travel.2. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room?on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip?and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.3. This trip includes domestic flights. The luggage allowance is 15kg for check in luggage and 7kg for carry on. You can store excess luggage at the start point hotel.
Mode of Transport
TRANSPORT IN INDIAMain roads in India are usually very busy with an assortment of vehicles from the biggest trucks (who always have right of way) down to bikes (and animals!). Overtaking on blind corners at speed is common as is the total use of the horn as a form of communication. Our leaders have complete authority to remove groups from local transport if the driver is not driving safely. Drivers of our private vehicles are experienced and well trained. If you are uncomfortable with your driver, please always let your tour leader know immediately. Please ensure you wear your seat belt at all times.TRAVEL TIMESDistances in India do not reflect the driving time and to cover 100km may take much longer than you would expect at home, even if much of the route is on a highway.TRAINS:India has a massive network of trains and millions of people travel by rail every day. Trains often travel the length of the country over several days. Trains are a great way to see the countryside and get you away from the busy road system. Delays and cancellations are common on trains. Your tour leader will check the train status to see if there are delays and will do their best to keep you informed of any changes.From December to February, delays are more common, especially in the north of the country due to fog. It’s not uncommon for trains to be delayed for up to 12 hours. On occasion, your trip may need to be rerouted to allow for these delays. Your tour leader in conjunction with our local office will advise any changes to the itinerary.FLIGHTSAirlines in India are of excellent quality. Airports are becoming more modern (especially in the major and tourist cities). To enter the airport, you must have a copy of your flight ticket and passport. Schedule changes and delays do occur, especially when weather conditions make visibility poor.AUTO RICKSHAWSOn this trip we may travel in a local style of transport called an auto-rickshaw. These small, motorised three-wheeled vehicles are a common form of transport in India and do not have seatbelts.
Accommodation
The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline only and may change. On some occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our preferred accommodation. In these cases, we will use a similar standard of accommodation.Throughout the trip, we request that our properties prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However, this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination or on some trips, have use of shared day rooms until all rooms are available.ACCOMMODATIONThe hotel accommodation on this trip is in air-conditioned rooms. Some areas of India experience daily load shedding. This is where the power may be turned off at certain times of the day and usually occurs for a few hours in the early afternoon. Most hotel properties have a restaurant or cafe serving local meals. Many restaurants and hotels do not serve alcohol for religious reasons or due to local laws.SHOWERS:Showers at some hotels only have hot water at peak times (usually morning and evening). Outside of these times, you may need to speak to reception to obtain hot water.WIFI:Generally, WiFi is available in most parts of India and at most of the accommodation we use. Sometimes it's free in the room, other times only available in reception or public areas. A general rule of thumb is the more expensive the hotel, the higher charge for WiFi access. Your group leader or local representative can assist locally in accessing the internet.ISSUES:If you have any issues with your room, please speak to the hotel and your group leader or local representativer right away rather than your travel agent so that the problem can be addressed without delay.
Check out our Q&As
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Is this trip right for you
In the summer months, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh can get very hot. Be sure to drink lots of water, pack light cotton clothing and use adequate skin protection.
There are several early mornings on this trip, as many parts of India really come alive in the dawn light.
It can get foggy between December and February, which can put a spin on the already spectacular scenery. However, it may cause traffic congestion and delays. -
What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room
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Free Date Changes
Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.
Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
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